Proper shrub pruning not only beautifies your plants, but it can improve their health. Simple techniques can dramatically improve the curb appeal of your property. The first thing that people notice when they go to your house or business is the exterior appearance. From a manicured lawn to the uniformity of the landscape plant material, anything that you can do to improve the curb appeal of your property will make it more inviting to guests. Most property owners do not understand the importance of proper shrub pruning on a annual basis. Taking the time at least one a year to inspect your plant material will save you money in the long run. Proper shrub pruning includes cutting out all dead or damaged branches. Proper shrub pruning should also take into consideration how much plant material to remove at one given time.
Over grown shrubs and trees can cover the beauty of your home or business. Overgrown plant material can damage siding, shingles and other material. It is important to install plant material in locations that will not negatively impact your property. If you are the unlucky benefactor of an improper landscape installation, don’t worry there is still help for your property. Start by identifying all of the plant material on your property.
Proper shrub pruning categories:
Early Bloomers- Plants that bloom before mid May.
Summer Bloomers- Plants that bloom after mid May.
Evergreens- Plants that have needles.
Hedges- Rows of like plant material that grow into each other to form one plant.
Once you have identified the plant material, you need to determine when the best time to prune is. Generally speaking, early bloomers should be pruned immediately following the last blooms, before new buds are present. Do not prune these plants before they bloom in the spring or while they are flowering as this may cut down on the quality and amount of blooms that the plant yields. Summer bloomers should be pruned following the last blooms, before new buds are present. Evergreens should be pruned after the new spring growth. Depending on the hedge variety, most hedges should receive at least one strong spring pruning and then periodic pruning throughout the growing season. Proper shrub pruning can also stimulate new growth in your plants.